And Now, All the Coolest Ways to Wear an Oversized Button-Down This Summer

If there's one item I've been reaching for on repeat this season, it's an oversized button-down shirt. Cool, effortless, and polished, the reliable wardrobe staple is a classic yet manages to remain fashion-forward. I've spotted the low-key basic in fresh and modern iterations all over the fashion crowd on Instagram—most popularly seen in breezy silhouettes and a whole host of trending colours.

Another reason I'm enamoured with the versatile basic (aside from the fact it leans into my coastal-grandma aesthetic perfectly) is that it's super easy to wear. Aside from the gym, I can't think of a single circumstance where wearing one would be inappropriate. Easy to dress up or down, it exudes an effortless elegance whether you style it with linen shorts or a silk slip dress. Moreover, it's super accessible. It's easy to find practically everywhere and at every price point.

If you're looking for a little inspiration on how to style one this season, I'm sharing a whole host of cool and fresh button-down outfit ideas below that are anything but boring.

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With a White Tank and a Slip Skirt
(Image credit: @anoukyve)

A light-blue button-down is the perfect casual topper over a basic white tank top and black slip skirt. Finish with a straw bag and chic black slides for a look that's casual yet polished.

Shop the look:

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With Loose Jeans and a Tank Top
(Image credit: @endlesslyloveclub)

For a casual weekend look, lean into loose and relaxed silhouettes, but keep it looking chic by going for a white palette from head to toe.

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With Neutral Shorts and Slides
(Image credit: @joiedejude)

For an of-the-moment touch, try a button-down in this season's buzziest hue—orange. Let the pop of color do the talking and keep the rest of your outfit in neutral tones.

Shop the look:

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With a Miniskirt and a Tee
(Image credit: @annelauremais)

I love the contrast of a miniskirt paired with a longline button-down. Just add ballet flats to complete your look.

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With a Bikini
(Image credit: @jordanrisa)

The great thing about a button-down is that it's just as good for an evening out as it is for a day at the beach. Throw it on over a bikini and wear it as a cool cover-up.

Shop the look:

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With a Slip Dress and Mules
(Image credit: @ali_tate_cutler)

Add a casual touch to a silky slip dress by wearing a loose and relaxed button-down nonchalantly over it. Finish with chic mules.

Shop the look:

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With Matching Shorts and a One-Piece
(Image credit: @smythsisters)

A matching shirt-and-shorts set always looks so effortlessly chic. Style on top of your swimsuit for cool vacation vibes.

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With Loose Trousers
(Image credit: @fakerstrom)

A loose white linen shirt will be your go-to in the summer. It looks fresh when paired with of-the-moment relaxed pants.

Shop the look:

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With Jeans and Sneakers
(Image credit: @champagnemani)

One of the easiest and simplest ways to style your button-down is with straight-leg jeans and cool sneakers—easy and effortless for a day in the city. Add cool accessories to add interest to your look.

Shop the look:

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With a Bikini Top and Pants
(Image credit: @tamaramory)

Take your look from the beach to the bar with the addition of a vibrant pink button-down and chic high-waisted black pants. 

Shop the look:

Up next, 15 Outfits That Define Each Summer Aesthetic - Coastal Grandma to Princesscore.

Judith Jones
Senior Fashion Market Editor

Judith Jones is the senior fashion market editor at Who What Wear who specializes in shopping content and trend stories with high-affiliate impact. She shares the coolest, most desirable fashion market finds and brands for every budget. Previous to working in fashion, Judith worked as a TV host on the PBS travel show Globe Trekker (airing on Netflix and Amazon Prime) sharing her passion for travel and culture.